How to Fix a Broken Blade on a Ryobi Reciprocating Saw

By Kurt Erickson Updated September 26, 2017

As a tool used primarily for demolition work, reciprocating saw blades can often break or become twisted when they come in contact with hard surfaces. Rather than fixing broken blades, Ryobi recommends replacing them. Changing the blades is a quick job that requires no tools. Most Ryobi reciprocating saws come equipped with two blades. The saw also accepts many generic brands found at home improvement retailers and hardware stores.

Unplug the saw from its electrical source. Lift the blade release lever located toward the front of the saw on the left side.

Remove the broken blade from its housing in the front of the saw. Discard the old blade.

Insert the new blade into the housing. The blade should be inserted tooth-side down. Lower the blade release lever to secure the new blade in place.

Restore power to the unit.

Things You Will Need

Replacement reciprocating saw blade

Eye protection

Sturdy work gloves

Warnings

Wear eye and hand protection.

Make sure the unit is unplugged before beginning this task.

References

About the Author

Kurt Erickson has more than 20 years of experience writing for newspapers in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Indiana. He is a 1987 graduate of Carroll College with a Bachelor of Science in communications. Erickson currently resides in Springfield, Ill., where he covers Illinois state government and politics for daily newspapers in Bloomington, Decatur, the Quad-Cities, Carbondale, Mattoon and Charleston.